Have you ever fantasized about living on a Greek island adorned with whitewashed buildings, a charming harbor, and turquoise waters reminiscent of scenes from the movie “Mamma Mia”? This dream could become a reality, thanks to an initiative from the small island of Antikythera.
Antikythera, an island located between Crete and the Peloponnese, Greece is offering €500, or about $530, per month for three years to encourage young families to move there, as reported by The Express
To address the island’s declining population, Greece is offering €500 per month to new residents of Antikythera for three years after their relocation. This totals €18,000, promising newcomers a serene, rural lifestyle with breathtaking beaches and a warm Mediterranean climate.
Antikythera currently has just 45 permanent residents, forming a tranquil and close-knit community. Wayne Mills, Head of Operations at Seven Seas Worldwide, highlights the island’s eagerness to attract young families, injecting youthful energy into the community. “You’ll likely be extremely popular as soon as you arrive!” he notes.
This initiative reflects broader efforts by many countries to tackle declining populations and talent shortages by welcoming new residents to specific areas. On Antikythera, most inhabitants are over 50, with few children, amplifying the need for rejuvenation.
The island spans a modest 7.89 square miles and is accessible by ferry from the nearby island of Kythira or from Kissamos port in Crete. Offering glimpses into traditional Greek island life, Antikythera is home to beautiful beaches, scenic views, and a single small shop that sells basic provisions during the winter. The island does have electricity and internet connectivity.
Antikythera is also renowned for the discovery of the Antikythera Mechanism, an ancient Greek analog computer dating back to 150–100 BCE, used for predicting astronomical positions and eclipses. Discovered in a 1901 shipwreck off the island’s coast, the device is one of the most significant technological artifacts from antiquity.
This same shipwreck (circa 70–60 BCE) is considered one of the richest ancient wrecks ever found, with a treasure trove of artifacts including statues, coins, and luxury goods.
Famed for its rugged beauty, Antikythera is also a wildlife haven. It’s a crucial stopover for migratory birds traveling between Europe and Africa, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
